Steelers may be without Jones

October 19, 2013

PITTSBURGH - Steelers linebacker Jarvis Jones, suffering from a concussion, is listed as questionable for the game vs. Baltimore on Sunday.

Jones said Friday that his headaches have dissipated, but after a series of NFL-mandated tests, he has not been cleared. He worked out on Friday at team headquarters, then took another exam before the injury report was issued.

"We're still taking precautions and going through the steps and trying to do the right things in the process for this type of situation," Jones said. "So, we're just taking it slow. We've still got two more days before the game. We'll see what they say."

If Jones can't start, veteran Jason Worilds is expected to reclaim the role that he lost in Game 2 at Cincinnati.

Jones has 14 tackles and three quarterback pressures for the Steelers (1-4). Worilds, in diminished playing time, has just seven tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble.

"I'm totally fine now," Jones said. "I just got back to the basic things to try to prepare myself for this week and this big game on Sunday."

Jones said he really didn't know when or how the injury happened during the Steelers' 19-6 win against the New York Jets last Sunday. He did know that he had never experienced symptoms like that after a game.

"Sunday night, I got home around 8, and I went to sleep when I got home. I was tired," Jones said. "And I woke up [Monday morning] with a headache. [But] I feel good today. I ran around out there and did some things. So, I'm feeling fine, so I'm just waiting to go through this process."

The Ravens (3-3) and quarterback Joe Flacco will test the linebacking corps regardless.

"You can't take your days off," Worilds said. "You have to come in here and work hard every day. So, I'll keep working hard, and if they call my number I'll be ready to go. Just like I am every week."